SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, Dec 20: The Shahid Nirmal Mahto Medical College Hospital (SNMMCH) in Dhanbad has introduced free MRI scan services for patients under the add-on package of the Ayushman Bharat scheme. The initiative aims to provide affordable healthcare to underprivileged patients.
Kranti Devi, a 45-year-old patient, was the first beneficiary of the facility. She underwent a critical spinal tumour operation at the hospital a few days ago. Following her free MRI scan today, she was discharged. This marks a significant step towards enhancing accessible healthcare services at SNMMCH.
Relief for patients facing high costs
The launch of free MRI scans has brought much-needed relief to economically disadvantaged patients, as such scans typically cost between ₹3,000 and ₹25,000 in private hospitals.
Dr. D.P. Bhushan, Head of the Orthopaedics Department and officiating superintendent of SNMMCH, highlighted the benefits of the Ayushman Bharat Scheme.
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“Under the add-on package of Ayushman Bharat Scheme, four tests—High-End Serology, Histopathology, CT Scan, and MRI—are being conducted free of cost,” said Dr. Bhushan.
He also mentioned the introduction of a Day Care Package at the hospital. “Plaster is being done free of cost, and the hospital provides free pouch arm slings, clavicular braces, finger immobilizer splints, skeletal traction, and other fracture-related treatments under Ayushman Bharat,” he added.
Specialized care for children and future plans
Dr. Bhushan revealed that the hospital has initiated free bowleg correction surgeries for children under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. “The government provides all help to such patients,” he said.
Children under five years of age are also eligible for free treatment at SNMMCH, provided their parents present an Ayushman Bharat card and an age certificate.
Looking ahead, SNMMCH plans to launch a 24-hour medicine shop under the Amrit Bharat Yojna. “An ambitious scheme of launching a medicine shop in the premises of SNMMCH is also in the pipeline. The medicine shop would remain open 24 hours for the convenience of patients,” stated Dr. Bhushan.
